Lap-Band surgery, or laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding surgery, is a procedure designed to help obese individuals and people at risk for obesity-related health problems manage weight and improve wellness. During the procedure a silicone belt called a Lap-Band is inserted around part of the stomach, which reduces the stomach-size to a small pouch. Though this may effectively reduce food intake and stimulate weight loss, there are some negatives associated with Lap-Band surgery.
Pain and Swelling
As with most surgical procedures, pain is common among Lap-Band surgery recipients. Pain is generally mild to moderate in severity. According to the University of California, San Diego Medical Center, or SDMC, patients will need pain medications such as acetaminophen for four to seven days following surgery. The stomach generally remains swollen and tender for four weeks following surgery.
Recovery Time
Though Lap-Band weight loss surgery is minimally invasive compared to other weight loss surgeries, it does require sufficient recovery time during which rest is recommended. According to the SDMC, recipients of Lap-Band surgery usually spend less than 24 hours recovering in the hospital and four to seven days recovering at home before returning to work. A person may not be able to partake in intense physical activity, including exercise, for four to six weeks or longer if complications arise.
Early Complications
Complications of Lap-Band surgery may occur shortly after the procedure. According to the Weight-control Information Network, or WIN, early complications may include leakage from the intestines, internal bleeding, infections and blood clots. Blood clots that develop in the legs may progress to the heart and lungs, which poses more serious risks.
Later Complications
Complications of Lap-Band surgery may also arise later, including malnutrition and hernias. According to WIN, people who fail to take doctor-prescribed dietary supplements are at highest risk for malnutrition. If left untreated, malnutrition can lead to further complications including nervous system damage, pallegra--a vitamin deficiency that may cause diarrhea, vomiting and skin problems--and beri beri, a vitamin deficiency that causes lethargy, irritability, pain and paralysis. Hernias may develop and cause blockages where the intestines were sewn together or in tissues of the abdominal wall.
Unsatisfactory Results
Not all recipients of Lap-Band surgery attain desired results. According to WIN, about 10 percent of people who have weight loss surgery lose unsatisfactory amounts of weight or regain weight later on. These issues arise when people overindulge in high-calorie foods frequently or when they fail to remain physically active. Technical problems from the surgery and emotional issues regarding food, diet and body image may also contribute to unwanted weight gain.
Cost
Lap-Band surgery is a costly procedure. Though many insurance companies and policies cover weight loss surgery for approved candidates, according to WIN, others do not. Weight loss surgery generally costs between $20,000 and $25,000.
Member Comments
andrewjhon July 16
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